Location: United States
Virta Health uses online nutrition plans and regular communication with medical professionals to reduce or eliminate medication.
The ketogenic (keto) diet is a lower-carb, higher-fat diet that is popular as a method for weight loss. Keto was initially developed in 1924 at the Mayo Clinic as a treatment for epilepsy, but research over the past two decades has linked it to several other benefits. One of those benefits is keto’s ability to stabilise blood sugars, making it a potentially useful eating style for type 2 diabetics.
Virta Health has developed a program for diabetics around the keto diet and found that 60% of users reversed their type 2 diabetes after one year. It doesn’t require strict calorie restrictions which increases adherence. 83% of clinical trial patients stuck with the program for the full year. Their concept of nutritional ketosis involves a higher-fat, moderate-protein and lower-carb diet through eating wholesome foods.
A health coach can be contacted through text for questions and support at any time. Users can also turn to the Virta community for additional support from other users. Regular medical supervision means users can have their medications lowered or eliminated when the time is right, while educational resources help with meals and lifestyle changes. Testing of blood sugar and ketone levels guide changes in the diet.
The program is entirely online or through the app – This improves access, eliminates commutes and reduces waiting times. Through improving blood sugar levels and weight loss, people with diabetes can get on a path towards better diabetes management and reversal.
Website: https://www.virtahealth.com/
Email: support@virtahealth.com
Image: Virta Health